| Among
the latest Mercedes-Benz models to speak to our emotional side (and let's face
it, there weren't many before it) are the CLK and its graceful sibling, the CLK
Cabriolet. With
a laid-back nose, substantial bodysides and a short, high rear deck the CLK makes
no apologies for being the personal (as opposed to family) car that it is. The
statement it makes about its owner is witty and elevated without being snotty
and unbecoming; its driver clearly does not need to tote her family around in
this machine, one that is considerably more captivating than the more plebian
C-Class on which it is based.
Inside
is, well, this is a Mercedes-Benz. You face a sweeping dashboard with about anything
you could possibly want in terms of interior pleasures (although we really wish
we could get an in-dash CD changer). Still, there is plenty of room, even in the
coupe's rear seats (the convertible's rear seat is a different story-short trips
only, please).
Powering
the CLK is your choice of three delicious engines. A 215-hp V-6 starts things
off with nothing to be ashamed of, while a 275-hp V-8 and more aggressive wheels
and tires add considerable oomph to the CLK's acceleration and handling figures
(not to mention about eight grand to the price). And if you just can't get enough,
the CLK55 AMG is a 342-hp thrill ride (available in both coupe and convertible
bodystyles), that brings with it a good bit of exclusivity to boot. That is, if
you can afford its rather steep $75-$80K price of admission. But
then again, money be damned, the CLK55 AMG version rockets the already sexy CLK
right off the sex appeal charts, and how can you put a price on that?
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